Happy Wedding Wednesday!
13 Types of Wedding Venues
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Here in North Texas, there are many different wedding venue types.
1. Museum Venues
While art museums are a classic choice, there are many more conservatory options worth entertaining. Natural history museums, city museums, air and space museums, and even children’s museums often have spaces to rent after-hours. You will have exhibits as your backdrop (like a historical propeller plane or impressive dinosaur skeleton), which are not only jaw-dropping but the perfect conversation starter for your guests.
Tip: Ask whether the staff can provide guided tours or open specific exhibits for your guests to explore and enjoy during cocktail hour. It is instant entertainment for family and friends of all ages.
2. Converted Building
Wedding venues are popping up all across the country in buildings that at one time had an entirely different use. Former warehouses, monasteries, factories and even airplane hangars can be rented out for your party—like your wedding. These unconventional and raw spaces are like blank canvases that can be decorated to fit almost any theme or aesthetic, not to mention that the addition of flowers and décor creates a beautiful contrast. Moreover, since some converted buildings are now run by event companies, many amenities (like a kitchen) will be built in.
Tip: If space does not hold regular events, you may want to hire an event designer and wedding coordinator. They can help you navigate trickier elements like rentals and liquor licenses.
3. National Parks
Public parks provide some of the prettiest backgrounds you will find for your fete—not to mention your wedding photos. Moreover, while they are the perfect spot for a casual, intimate wedding, and still pulling off an affair on a luxurious scale can be done. The trick?
Most public spaces require you to apply for a permit ahead of time and could have some restrictions as far as bringing in sound, rentals, equipment, and food and drinks.
Tip: Because you might not be able to set up a tent or book a spot for an extended period, public parks are typically better suited for your ceremony. Great place for your reception, could be at nearby resorts, hotels, and restaurants.
4. Conservatory or Botanical Gardens
If you have always imagined getting married surrounded by flowers, consider having your wedding at a local botanical garden, conservatory or horticulture center. Besides lots of beautiful blooms, many gardens have pretty fountains, tree-lined paths, perfectly manicured flower beds or an ethereal greenhouse where you can marry but also hold your reception.
Tip: With high glass ceilings and tons of natural greenery, you will not need to bring in many of your flowers; decorate with non-floral elements like candles (if they are allowed) and glass vessels.
5. Historic Libraries
Archetypal libraries make the ideal backdrop for a sophisticated soiree, as the spaces are usually historic and sprawling, with beautiful architectural details. If you love literature, you will fall for the idea of marrying in the midst of some of the world’s best love stories and classic tales.
Tip: Take inspiration from your favorite novel to plan your party. For example, channel the 1920s with a glamorous The Great Gatsby-inspired art deco affair or a swinging Harlem Renaissance-themed bash drawn from the setting of Toni Morrison’s Jazz. Add a passage from your fave book to the ceremony to bring the full theme circle.
6. Boats
Love the water? Plan to wed on any seaworthy vessel, whether it is a yacht, sailboat, riverboat, cruise ship or ferry. Your guests will love it, and your photographer will be thankful for the changing backgrounds throughout the day.
Tip: Marrying on the water does not necessarily mean on the high seas. For example, some historic ships or out-of-commission military vessels are permanently docked but open for weddings.
7. Antique Stores
If you spend your weekends antiquing and your home is filled with flea market finds, then you might be sold pretty easily on the idea of an antique-store wedding. Think about it: All that kitschy-cool decor you would buy or rent anyway is built right in!
Tip: Mix and match everything on your tables, from the centerpiece vessels to the chargers and glassware, to fit the laid-back vintage vibe.
8. Theaters
If you are in the performing arts, then you should probably entertain (pun intended) the idea of saying “I do” on stage. Theaters almost always offer refreshments during productions, including adult beverages, so most will already have a liquor license and the ability to a bar setup. Love the theatre but prefer to get married outside, try to find an amphitheater. Remember summer is usually a big time for events, so you may want to consider early summer or late fall.
Tip: Raise the curtains for your entrance, and have your bridal party enter from stage right and left to play up the theme. Suggest your string quartet or four-piece band set up in the orchestra pit— they will most likely feel right at home.
9. Hotel or Resorts
Looking for endless possibilities for your wedding day at one of the countless hotels or resorts and get help by their professional wedding day coordinator bring your ideas to life. Whatever tastes or styles, it is yours that matters. Create your one of a kind joyous occasion.
Tip: Look for a hotel or resort that has oversized windows, GREAT! For Wedding Day Portraits. Tour thru their indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception options.
10. Country Club
Looking to get married outdoors, with beautiful green and trees in the background… What to get married in a ballroom with stunning views… For intimate to lavish celebrations that become unforgettable.
Tip: Look for a ballroom that features picturesque views, with glowing lanterns, French glass doors, picture windows, vaulted ceilings, large hardwood dance floor, living room, and separate cocktail reception area.
11. Barn, Farm, or Ranch
Looking for a rustic, yet still elegant venue. Farm or Ranch can create a idyllic countryside setting for any southern bell. Many have different types of incredible ceremony locations to choose from, such as, barn, surrounded by water, in the glass, and etc.
Tip: the Rustic trend has taken beautiful brides by storm with something sweet and simply lovely about weathered barn with heart and history.
12. House of Worship
House of Worship has been chosen by many couples to host their ceremonies in a religious building, such as church, cathedral, synagogue, mosque, temple, etc. An elegant and traditional setting to host a picture perfect wedding and reception.
Tip: Churches are a dime a dozen, here in North Texas, it is hard to narrow down your choices and select a spot that aligns with your religion, budget, location, and style criteria.
13. Landmark Building
Southern Hospitality is not only a tradition but a way of life. Landmark Buildings reflects both the architectural and social character preserved in time. Many are rustic, quaint, and historical, that create a warm, reminiscent atmosphere for your special day.
If you are looking for a DFW & Destination Wedding Photographer that serves all of North Texas and Worldwide, we would love to chat, by clicking the contact us and inquiry today.